In a shocking development that deepens the mystery surrounding the disappearance of several cockfighting (sabungero) enthusiasts, whistle-blower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan has come forward to directly implicate high-profile businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto in the abduction and alleged killing of the victims.
Patidongan, who previously served as chief of security at Ang’s cockfighting farms, claimed in an exclusive interview with GMA’s 24 Oras that Ang was the mastermind behind the disappearances. According to Patidongan, Barretto—long rumored to have business ties with Ang—also played a role in the events leading up to the abductions.
This revelation marks the most explosive allegation to date in a saga that has gripped national attention since early reports of missing sabungeros surfaced. The victims, many of whom were last seen near cockfighting arenas in Luzon, vanished without a trace in what authorities initially suspected to be linked to gambling disputes.
Patidongan, now in protective custody, earlier revealed that the sabungeros are “no longer alive,” stating that they were killed as part of a coordinated operation. His testimony is being regarded as a major breakthrough in the multi-agency investigation, which had long been stalled due to a lack of credible leads and reluctant witnesses.
While Ang has repeatedly denied any involvement in the case and maintained his businesses are legitimate, the new allegations cast fresh doubt over his denials. Barretto has yet to release a public statement as of this writing.
Lawmakers and victims’ families are now demanding swift and transparent action from law enforcement. Senator Raffy Tulfo, who has previously called out the sluggish pace of the investigation, reiterated his call for a Senate inquiry, stating: “This is no longer just about gambling. This is about justice, accountability, and the rule of law.”
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have declined to comment in detail but confirmed that Patidongan’s affidavit is being vetted for authenticity and actionable intelligence.
With the whistle-blower now under protection, authorities are hopeful that more witnesses will be encouraged to come forward.
The case continues to develop as the nation watches closely, awaiting justice for the missing sabungeros and their families—many of whom have waited years for answers.